traction Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the friction between a body and the surface on which it moves (as between an automobile tire and the road)
    grip; adhesive friction.
  2. noun (orthopedics) the act of pulling on a bone or limb (as in a fracture) to relieve pressure or align parts in a special way during healing
    • his leg was in traction for several days

WordNet

Trac"tion noun
Etymology
L. trahere, tractum, to draw: cf. F. traction.
Definitions
  1. The act of drawing, or the state of being drawn; as, the traction of a muscle.
  2. Specifically, the act of drawing a body along a plane by motive power, as the drawing of a carriage by men or horses, the towing of a boat by a tug.
  3. Attraction; a drawing toward. R.
  4. The adhesive friction of a wheel on a rail, a rope on a pulley, or the like. Knight.

Webster 1913